Presbytery of South Louisiana

Presbytery of
South
Louisiana
June 2
2015
130th Stated Meeting of the
Presbytery of South Louisiana
Albany Hungarian Presbyterian Church
30767 Hungarian Presbyterian Church Rd.
Albany, LA 70711 225-567-2098
www.ahpchurch.com
8:00a.m. Registration Opens
8:30a.m. New Commissioner Training
9:00a.m. Worshipful Work Begins
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CONSENT AGENDA (OMNIBUS MOTION)
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CPM Recommended Action to Presbytery:
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1. That the updated Committee on the Preparation for Ministry Handbook be approved as
presented.
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2. That the following individuals be approved as GA Readers for Theological Examinations,
2015:
TE: Crawford Brubaker, Layne Brubaker, Martha Robson, Zach Sasser
RE: Louise Kaltenbaugh, Glenda Keegan,
Alternate: Leslie Mansell, Mary Mikell
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COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE ACTION ITEM: The Committee requests that the following
amendment be made to appendix A of the PSL Communications Policy:
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Name of Item
Target Audience
Contents/Editorial
Approval
Distribution
Frequency/
Method
Comments/
Deadlines
Social Media
(including but not
limited to:
Facebook, Twitter,
Instagram,
Google+, etc.)
All persons in
Presbytery of
South Louisiana
and other
interested parties
in related
agencies
Information
related to PSL
congregations
and mission
partners / All PSL
related social
media accounts,
pages or groups
must be reported
to the PSL Office
and must include
the GP and Office
Administrator as
moderators with
editorial privileges.
Available 24/7
Online
The PSL will
establish and
maintain a
Facebook page
and a YouTube
Channel. Groups
may be closed or
open depending
on function and
need. Council
members should
also be included
as moderators for
ministry specific
accounts / pages.
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TREASURER RECOMMENDATION
1. It is recommended the 2015 PSL Financial Report through April 30, 2015 be
received.
2. It is recommended the 2015 FRC Financial Report through April 30, 2015 be
received.
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YOUTH MINISTRY REPORT
Things have been gearing up with the youth program for PSL. At the last presbytery
meeting, we raised $813 through the envelope fundraiser, thank you for all of your support! I
have also had the opportunity to do presentations at Raceland Presbyterian Church as well
as Kenner Presbyterian Church. I also have a joint presentation/afternoon of activities with
Hannah Mills at the end of May for the western cluster of the presbytery. If any of you are
interested in having me come talk to youth and their parents let me know.
I have also been finalizing the summer trips. Our final count for Montreat is 11 youth and
3 adults from 6 different churches. The dates for Montreat are June 13th-June 20th. I have
also finalized the numbers for our junior high trip to Mo Ranch, there are 16 youth and 4
adults from 8 different churches attending. The dates for Mo Ranch are June 28th-July 2nd.
Finally, I have set a date for the fall retreat, September 10th-12th at Feliciana Retreat
Center. I will also be making phone calls as reminders to sign up for the retreat. The sign up
deadline is August 21st. The cost is $75 per participant. Scholarship is available; contact Alex
for forms to apply for those funds.
Peace,
Alex Pappas
SPIRITUAL DEVELOPEMENT – Pilgrimage
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Presbytery of South Louisiana
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LOUISIANA PRESBYTERIAN PILGRIMAGE
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June 2, 2015
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The next Pilgrimage weekend will be June 25-28, 2015 at The Wesley Center in
Woodworth, La. Registration is available online at
www.louisianapresbyteriancursillo.org or contact any member of the Pilgrimage 4th
Day Community.
Members of the Louisiana Presbyterian Pilgrimage Council for 2015 are: Alan
Thompson, Chair; Tom Tucker, Vice Chair; Jill Wild, Treasurer; Sandy Broussard,
Secretary; Barbara Breedlove, Registrar; Dwyer Broussard, Mike Giagrosso, Eva
LeBlanc, Pam Meyers, Bruce Turner, Loretta Credo, and Glenda Woo.
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PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN
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Presbyterian Women Report to
Presbytery of South Louisiana
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Presbyterian Women (PW) from Presbytery of South Louisiana (PSL) met for the 2015 Spring
Gathering on Saturday, April 25, 2015 at University Presbyterian Church (UPC) in Baton Rouge.
Rev. Kris Peterson and Jan Boydstun lead worship and Mrs. Colleen Gates shared highlights from
PW’s Global Exchange Mission trip to the Caribbean in November 2014. The offering collected
at the gathering will go to PCUSA missions in the Dominican Republic. Approximately 48 women
attended the Spring Gathering and many wore orange to illustrate their commitment to
“Orange Days”, which is an international effort to raise awareness about violence against
women and human trafficking. An excellent resource is available at PCUSA on “Together in
Action – to end human trafficking”. Displays on mission projects from organizations in PSL were
available at the gathering. A portion of the monies collected through registration fees from this
event will be used to purchase linens and other supplies for families assisted by Presbyterian
Children’s Homes and Services (PCHAS) in Louisiana.
Women from our presbytery will be attending PW’s Churchwide Gathering, June 18-21,
2015 in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota. This conference provides opportunities to learn more
about global missions and many of the challenges women and children face throughout the
world. I am honored to serve as a Voting Representative for PW’s Churchwide Business Meeting
and will also participate in conference workshops and worship services.
Presbyterian women from churches in our Presbytery participated in the first fundraiser
luncheon for PCHAS, held in Baton Rouge on March 25, 2015. Through that luncheon,
approximately $6,000 was raised for their programs and services provided to families in Baton
Rouge and New Orleans.
Presbyterian women are collecting monies for the Birthday Offering for two offering
recipients, Community of St. Therese of Lisieux (CSTL) in Memphis, Tennessee and Bethesda
Christian Community Center in Barranquilla, Colombia. Both of these projects support women
who are overcoming poverty, abuse, prostitution or human trafficking. The goal for the 2015
Birthday Offering is $500,000 and the theme is “Comfort, O comfort my people, says your
God….He will feed his flock like a shepherd: he will gather the lambs in his arms” (Isaiah 40:1,
11a.).
Fall rallies are being planned for August 2015, when the 2015-2016 Horizon’s Bible Study
will be presented. Judy Fletcher, past Executive of Synod of the Sun, authored this Bible Study,
“Come to the Waters”, which includes faith stories about water throughout the Bible from
Genesis to Revelation.
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Thank you for the opportunity to serve as Moderator of Presbyterian Women of South Louisiana. It is
a blessing and joy for me to learn more about the many ways that people in our presbytery serve
others through mission and worship.
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Grace and Peace, Jan R. Boydstun, Moderator
Presbyterian Women of South Louisiana
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MISSION COMMITTEE
Hunger Action Enabler:
April 2015 Written Report: Update from the Mission and Hunger Action Enabler
Hannah Mills
● I applied for a Mission Grant from the Synod of the Sun and the PSL received a $5,000 grant
for the development of the Hunger Action Network.
● I worked with One Great Hour of Sharing representatives in their discussions of funding
projects in the Delta and in New Orleans.
● I preached at Kenner Presbyterian Church with future preaching engagements scheduled
at Northminster, First Welsh, Parkway and at Faith Harvey a second time. I served as liturgist
at the Maundy Thursday service at St. Charles Ave. Presbyterian.
● I attended Together Baton Rouge luncheons to learn more about food justice and social
justice in Baton Rouge.
● I represented the Presbytery of South Louisiana at the Bread or Stones Campaign meetings
of the Louisiana Interchurch Conference.
● I am serving on the Garden Committee of Westbank Community Ministries.
● I attended the Presbyterian Women Spring Gathering, offering a variety of resources and
introducing them to my work.
● I regularly contribute to the 10/20 PSL newsletter.
● I am currently planning screenings of the documentary, A Place At The Table, about food
deserts and hunger in America. The Western Cluster screening is at the end of the month
with the Greater Baton Rouge cluster screening to take place in the fall.
● I am attending the Mission and Peacemaking Committee meeting of UPC to discuss
partnering with Together Baton Rouge to host the screening of A Place At The Table for the
Greater Baton Rouge cluster.
● I will be preaching on May 31 at First Presbyterian Church in Welsh and screening A Place
At The Table for the Western Cluster, partnering with PSL Youth Coordinator, Alex Pappas.
● I am working on hosting another PSL­wide Mission Service Day for both June and July.
● In June, I am attending the national PW Churchwide Gathering, June 18-21.
● I am serving as the Special Offerings Ambassador for the PSL. I am beginning to speak and
present on Special Offerings for the Presbytery, starting with 20 churches. I am currently
partnered with John Calvin Presbyterian to promote the Pentecost offering.
● I am working with the Communications Committee to form a Missions of the PSL Facebook
page to document and spread the word about the mission projects of the presbytery.
● Lastly, I will be presenting at Presbytery an updated report of my work, SDOP in the PSL,
Cents Ability, Alternative Giving, PSL Hunger Action Network, and Bread or Stones
Campaign.
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Mission Evangelist (Hunger Action Enabler) Part-Time Position Proposal
Presbytery Meeting June 2015
The Mission Evangelist (Hunger Action Enabler) for the Presbytery of South Louisiana
would be a part time paid position, supporting the churches of the presbytery in their
pursuit to transform and engage in mission. (The Mission Evangelist as a title is more
appropriate for a broader support and advocate for all types of mission work rather
than the exclusive Hunger Action Enabler title taken from the national PHP Hunger
Action Enabler program.)
The Mission Evangelist position is the response to the New Beginnings congregations’
desire to engage in mission transformation by identifying mission opportunities and
engaging churches in projects that work to alleviate hunger and poverty. The creation
of the Hunger Action Network, with the service of the Mission Evangelist, could serve
an impactful and powerful step to continue to transform the presbytery into a
missional body of churches that are collectively working together.
This position would also require working with churches in the presbytery to promote
hunger ministries and food justice. Promoting food justice would look like supporting
churches in their food pantries, community gardens, local mission projects, and host
educational events.
The General Presbyter would be responsible for supervision for the Mission Evangelist.
The Mission Evangelist would present updates in the 10/20, Council meetings, and
Presbytery meetings.
Responsibilities:
● Develop, maintain, and grow the Hunger Action Network of the PSL (see
Hunger Action Network Proposal) involving the entire presbytery
● Work with congregations to develop concrete action plans for mission in
their specific communities
○ Engage in mission transformation with New Beginnings churches tailored
to their local communities
○ Identify project opportunities for each cluster based on local needs and
the Bread or Stones Campaign’s project suggestions (see Hunger Action
Network Proposal and Bread or Stones Campaign Covenant)
● Promote Bread or Stones Campaign of the Louisiana Interchurch Conference
throughout the PSL
○ Serves as the PSL representative for the Bread or Stones meetings at the
Louisiana Interchurch Conference and work as the liaison for the
Presbytery and the Hunger Action Network. The Mission Evangelist will
provide notes and updates to Presbytery-wide Hunger Action Network
members.
● Networking with churches and their local nonprofit affiliates
● Developing ecumenical partnerships with churches addressing poverty and
hunger
● Preaching and teaching upon request
● Meeting regularly with the General Presbyter to plan and review projects
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● Present updates in the 10/20, Council meetings, and Presbytery meetings
The position would be part-time and funded mostly through grants, including the
Presbyterian Hunger Program grant and a Mission Grant from the Synod of the Sun
($5,000). The PHP grant could be matched by the Presbytery of South Louisiana.
$5,000 Synod of the Sun Mission Grant for the Hunger Action Network
$8,000 Presbyterian Hunger Program (pending)
$8,000 Presbytery of South Louisiana (pending) (To match the PHP Grant)
The development of the Hunger Action Network (see Proposal) would need a leader
who is prepared to serve clusters and congregations in their mission projects to address
hunger and poverty locally. Through the partnership with the Bread or Stones
Campaign, the service of the Mission Evangelist, the transformation of congregations
through the Holy Spirit, and the prayers and support of the Presbytery, we would be
able to better serve and reach out to our brothers and sisters in South Louisiana.
Hannah Mills
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Highlights from the Wetlands Theological Education Project – Spring 2015
Katherine Norwood, Young Adult Volunteer, WTEP
[email protected]
January
Project Homecoming Presentations: Bennett and I were able to give two presentations to volunteer groups at
Project Homecoming; additionally we collected names for the Disappearing Coast newsletter. Both groups were made
up of college students.
First People’s Conservation Council: FPCC met at the NRCS office in Luling in January. I was able to take minutes for
the Council. The Council talked about reelections for officers of the council and also planned the next meeting, which
will take place in April.
Tree plant preparation: I was able to go on a tree plant preparation day in Jean Lafitte National Park with Coalition
to Restore Coastal Louisiana. I unloaded all of the materials necessary for the next day when the trees would actually
be planted. It was a great day to be out in the park and learn about CRCL and all of the work they are doing.
February
BTNEP Management Conference: I was able to attend the BTNEP management conference at Nicholls State. Among
old and new business, I learned about the reintroduction of Bayou Lafourche to the Mississippi River and various
events BTNEP is hosting in the coming months.
Highland Pres Work group from Lancaster: February 7-14 a group from Lancaster, PA stayed down in Pointe au
Chien and worked on three projects in the community that needed assistance in addition to doing fellowship with
members of the community. One of the projects involved doing a few basic home improvements in order to make a
home livable for a family in a difficult situation. Another project was laying a floor, and the third was securing the
steps of a raised home. The group had many lunches with their on site partners. They also had a potluck dinner with
members of the First Presbyterian church of Bayou Blue as well as attending church at Bayou Blue.
Community service day in St. Bernard State Park: The YAVs did our community service day for February with the
Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana (CRCL). Working with 30 other volunteers, we planted 800 trees! It was a great
opportunity to work physically on the restoration of the wetlands; additionally, it was a great opportunity for the
other YAVs to get to experience wetlands work.
Project Homecoming Presentations: Bennett and I were able to do one presentation at Project Homecoming during
the month of February. There were only a few groups in February, due to the time of year.
March
The Land Is Mine reflections: I worked with Dick on some reflections on The Land is Mine by Norman Habel. One
piece of those reflections can be found in the April edition of the Disappearing Coast newsletter.
Clemson PSA workgroup: Lakeview Presbyterian Church in New Orleans hosted the Presbyterian Student
Association from Clemson University for a weeklong mission experience. Tuesday of that week was wetlands day,
which I led. I began the day with a brief presentation about the wetlands and the issues facing them. We then went out
to Grand Bayou Village for the day and painted the new church’s steps. We were able to fellowship with members of
the community throughout the day and over lunch. In the evaluations of the mission week, overwhelmingly, the
students said their favorite day was the wetlands day because of how much they were able to interact with the
community of Grand Bayou Village.
Project Homecoming Presentations: March is a popular month for spring break, so Bennett and I were able to do
two presentations at Project Homecoming to high school and college students. Beginning in March with Daylight
Savings, we were able to take the groups out to Bayou Savage, weather permitting.
April
Disappearing Coast: The Disappearing Coast newsletter was sent out mid April, featuring links to articles about the
BP oil spill trial and new evaluations of the coast since the spill, reports about the two volunteer groups (Lancaster
and Clemson) and reflections on The Land Is Mine.
Project Homecoming Presentations: We were able to do one presentation at Project Homecoming to a group of high
school students. We took them to Bayou Savage for a tour and presentation.
Sunday School Curriculum: I began to develop Sunday school curriculum due to a request made for curriculum with
a stewardship focus. I will continue to seek resources for the development of this curriculum.
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PSL 2015 Necrology Report
Ruling Elders and Teaching Elders who died in 2014
Name
Church
Louis Charles Bartus
Albany Hungarian Presbyterian Church
Alta May Chabina
Albany Hungarian Presbyterian Church
Doris Carolyne Juhasz Himel
Albany Hungarian & Metairie Ridge Presbyterian Church
James Louis Olah, Sr.
Albany Hungarian Presbyterian Church
The Rev. Vernis Duain Wolfe
Pastor Emeritus, Albany Hungarian Presbyterian Church
John Mueller
Broadmoor Presbyterian Church, Baton Rouge
J Trigg Wood
Broadmoor Presbyterian Church, Baton Rouge
Rufus Price
Church of the Way, Baton Rouge
Robert Reynolds
Church of the Way, Baton Rouge
Al Bankston
University Presbyterian Church, Baton Rouge
Herman Rowlett, Jr
University Presbyterian Church, Baton Rouge
Jean Montgomery
Clinton Presbyterian Church
Winifred “Wynn” Llewellyn
First Presbyterian Church, Hammond
Iris Wiggins
First Presbyterian Church, Hammond
John C Comeaux
Jefferson Presbyterian Church
Frederick C. Jung, Jr
Kenner Presbyterian Church
Claude Hooten
Grace Presbyterian Church, Lafayette
Lily Hernandez Peterson
Grace Presbyterian Church, Lafayette
W. Jack Knapp
First Presbyterian Church, Lake Charles
Catherine Babin
St Andrew Presbyterian Church, Lake Charles
Jean Holt Favaloro
John Calvin Presbyterian Church, Metairie
James Robert Corcoran, M.D.
John Calvin Presbyterian Church, Metairie
Elizabeth “Betty” Hanbury
Metairie Ridge Presbyterian Church
Frances Pohlig
Metairie Ridge Presbyterian Church
Gray D Morrison
St Charles Avenue Presbyterian Church, New Orleans
Stanley E Morrison
St Charles Avenue Presbyterian Church, New Orleans
Nettie Adele Reed
Norwood Presbyterian Church
Joseph Daniels
Woodland Presbyterian Church, Pineville
Mary Elizabeth Greenwood
Westminster Presbyterian Church, Sulphur
Stephen Coco
First Presbyterian Church, Welsh

If an elder from your church was not listed, the Presbytery Office did not receive the information.
Please forward the information to the office to have it placed in the official minutes.
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FINANCE
Finance Committee Report to Presbytery
Lee W. Randall, Chairman
June 2, 2015
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Action Item
None
Information
The Treasurer will distribute the latest Financial Statements with his report. I
encourage you to read his report. For the first four months of 2015 the Presbytery had a
net income of $8,000; a result similar to prior years for the same period. For the year,
we are still projecting a large loss.
The “Stewardship Team” appointed by the GP has been calling churches to
thank those who did pledge for the year and asking those that did not to consider
doing so. Generally speaking the feedback that the team has heard is that “we are
doing what we can”. The Team will continue making those calls until all churches
have been contacted.
The Visioning Team led by Ron Sutto has been working diligently to plan
for the Presbytery’s future considering the income that the Presbytery receives each
year and the funds currently on hand. The outcome of their work will guide the
development of the budget for 2016 which will be presented at the October
Presbytery meeting. With all of the operating reserves having been used to balance
the budget these last few years, it is very likely that the 2016 budget will be noticeably
smaller than recent budgets.
The CPUMI P.O. Box has been closed. Any future mail (there hasn’t been any first
class mail in a while) will now go directly to the PSL office.
The Presbytery has appealed the Appellate Court’s ruling in the Carrollton
matter to the LA Supreme Court. This step is the beginning of the last stop in the courts
for this matter.
This concludes my report.
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TREASURER’S REPORT
TREASURER’S REPORT TO PRESBYTERY
June 2, 2015
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended the 2015 PSL Financial Report through April 30, 2015 be
received.
NUTSHELL
 Only 43% of the churches have sent in 2015 pledges.
 Deficit projection for 2015 is $196,309.
 Only $8,919 left in operating reserve.
 Only $4,536 received for PSL Support in April.
 $24,504 deficit for April.
PSL FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
As of April 30, 2015, operating funds in the Capital One Checking account was
$63,396 of which $10,235 is due to higher level councils, other accounts, and other
agencies, leaving $53,161 available, up $33,435 from last month. Operating reserve is
$8,919.
Revenue for April was only $12,539 of which only $4,536 was for PSL and none for
General Assembly or Synod. Presbytery support is 19% ahead of budget. GA support
is 3% below budget. Synod support is 2% below budget. A few churches have paid
their entire pledge for the year. The result is this temporary ahead of budget picture
for PSL. Unfortunately it won’t last long.
Operating Expenses for April were $37,046 and is 9% below budget for the year –
good job. Administration is on budget and Staff is 2% below budget.
The Operating Deficit for April was $24,507 and for the year the surplus is $8,881
meaning we have spent most of the full pledges that have been paid.
YAV operating cash on hand at the end of April was $2,512 and is much lower
than desired. YAV Operating Reserve was $5,403 which is $5,000 lower than last
month.
YAV operations for April show income of $6,970 and expenses of $10,657 leaving
a deficit for the month of $3,687. YAV deficit for the year is $33,200.
At this writing and additional $10,000 was drawn from the YAV Restricted Fund to
cover the YAV mid-May payroll.
Peace Church Fund had no income and no expense for April since YAV is now
paying the utilities at Andrew House.
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Consolidation
Restricted Funds for April show investment increase of $3,040 and $963 of
income; for a total increase of $4,003. There was $43,207 expense. Thus, there was a
decrease of $39,204.
Consolidated operations resulted in a deficit for April of $67,398.
The advance to FRC (from the authorized Peace Church Fund line of credit) to
cover cash flow is now $45,000.
CASH FLOW PLAN
The operating reserve fund has only $8,919. Transfers to provide operating cash
will be made from the Church Development Fund to cover cash flow needs. The
Finance Committee is considering other sources to avoid depleting Church
Development.
FRC REPORT
Feliciana Retreat Center remains a separate set of books and presents its report
to the Feliciana Management Team.
The last of the grant approved in February 2012 for Barton Hall Restrooms and
other improvements at FRC was drawn as those projects were completed.
The line of credit from FRC is now at $45,000 of the $50,000 maximum approved.
2015 PLEDGING
No new pledges have been received from the churches. Participation remains
at:
23 of 54 churches have submitted pledges – 43%
42% of requested funding has been pledged by these 23 churches
WORKERS’ COMP PAYROLL AUDIT
The 2014 Workers’ Comp Payroll Audit was completed and submitted. A
premium adjustment due to actual payroll has been paid.
2014 FINANCIAL AUDIT
The audit of 2014 financial records by Postlethwaite & Netterville is fully under
way. The deadline for completion is June 30 to satisfy the requirements of the
Louisiana State Legislative Auditors.
Respectfully submitted,
Thomas C. Tucker
Treasurer
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Attachments:
Everyone is expected to have read attachment 1. All others are optional.
1. PSL Operating Summary, April 2015
One page Executive Summary.
2. PSL Financial Position, April 2015 (Balance Sheet)
Lists Assets, including cash on hand and investments, and Liabilities.
3. PSL Operating Activities, April 2015 (Income Statement)
Contains account receipts and expenses.
4. PSL 12-month Activities, April 2015 (Income-Expense)
Lists monthly receipts and expenses.
5. PSL Designated Recap, April 2015
Lists Designated Funds with income and expense.
6a. PSL Temp Restricted Recap 1, April 2015
6b. PSL Temp Restricted Recap 2, April 2015
(due to a formatting glitch this report is in two parts)
Lists Temporarily Restricted Funds with income and expense.
7. PSL Perm Restricted Recap, April 2015
Lists Temporarily Restricted Funds with income and expense.
C1. PSL Mission Giving Report, April 2015
Lists Support & Special Offerings by church.
C2. Church Remittance, April 2015
Summary of contributions for each church.
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CAMPUS MINISTRY
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June 2, 2015
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Campus ministries are reminded to copy the Treasurer on their 2014 activities report to
Council so he can disburse the 2015 spring semester support funds.
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Likewise, activity reports for the 2015 spring semester will justify disbursement of 2015 fall
semester support funds.
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Page 12 of 23
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FELICIANA RETREAT CENTER
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Feliciana Retreat Center
Interim Administrator Report
May 5, 2015
This document highlights recent activities at the Feliciana Retreat Center.
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Camp Ground Activity
The remodeling of hogans (cabins) four and five is almost complete.. For this project two
hogans were elevated, leveled, reframed, and new siding installed. They were then insulated
and air conditioners installed to replace the old fans. This work was done without cost to the
Retreat Center. The hogans will be ready for Intro Camp when it starts May 1, 2015. Two
groups have already shown an interest in using these hogans.
MURF A was insulated this fall and the meeting room and kitchen were painted this spring in
time for use by a new group. After sitting virtually idle for years It is rewarding to see these
facilities attracting business.
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Lodge Room Refurbishment
The Lodge Room refurbishment work is essentially complete. The minor items remaining will be
completed as part of our on-going continuous improvement maintenance program.
General
This is a busy time at the Retreat Center as we prepare for the summer activities. As the
swimming season begins we have reinstalled the water feature at the Dip and added a new
option to it. The kayaks are ready to come out of storage and brought to Dunn Lake. Our
recreation staff are getting certified/recertified for the rock wall, challenge course and
lifeguarding. We have kept the grounds in good condition through the winter so only minor
cleanup is necessary. And finally, with warm weather and spring rains we renew our battle
with the fire ants.
Reservations and Pricing
The office staff continues to review our pricing structure in detail. One area we continue to
monitor closely is the minimum size group that we can economically accommodate. An
ongoing problem is that groups book for twenty five or more and then show up with less than
twenty. We charge for meals for the booked number because we have purchased the food
but lose revenue on the rooms.
Most of these groups are from small churches that can’t afford to pay the full booked room
amount.
Personnel
After a period of personnel turnover our personnel situation is finally stable as we have been
able to hire quality personnel that enjoy working at FRC. We were fortunate to hire a lead
maintenance man who has eight years of experience in camp maintenance.
Richard Wuensch
Interim Administrator
Page 13 of 23
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FELICIANA MANAGEMENT TEAM
FMT REPORT TO PRESBYTERY
2012 GRANT TO FRC FOR IMPROVEMENTS
June 2, 2015
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The Feliciana Management Team wishes to express their appreciation to the
Presbytery of South Louisiana for the gracious grant awarded from the Peace Church
Fund at their February 19, 2012 meeting for improvements to the Feliciana Retreat
Center. The improvements have been completed. This is the final report on these
projects.
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Total Grant Awarded: $95,600.

Porch Repair: $12,600 paid on 2/28/2012. This was reimbursement for the repairs
which FRC had already made to correct a safety hazard.

Heat Pump: $8,000 paid on 2/8/2014. The cost was higher than expected so
purchase was delayed. The old heat pump finally quit entirely. Total cost was
$14,100 so this turned out to be a participating grant with FRC paying the
additional $6,100 from its maintenance and improvement fund.

Barton Hall Restrooms: $75,000 with final payment on 4/7/2015. Architect and
construction were paid from this grant. Payment was made via initial deposit,
progress payments, and final payment. The total cost of the project was $94,241
so this too turned out to be a participating grant with FRC paying the additional
$19,241 from its maintenance and improvement fund.

Total Grant Paid: $95,600.
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Once again, FMT wishes to thank PSL for providing timely funds to allow these
vital projects to be undertaken.
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Sincerely,
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Feliciana Management Team
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Page 14 of 23
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FMT TREASURER’S REPORT
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FMT Treasurer’s Report to Presbytery
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June 2, 2015
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RECOMMENDATION
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It is recommended the 2015 FRC Financial Report through April 30, 2015 be
received.
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As of April 30, 2015, Total Investments (cash for designated funds) is $59,965 and
Total Designated Funds is $69,119 which means $9,154 is not covered. These are funds
we are borrowing from ourselves just to keep the doors open. NOTE: As of this writing
an additional $10,000 was drawn from Total Investments to cover the mid-May payroll.
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CASH NEED
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ATTACHMENTS
The following FRC financial statements as of April 30, 2015 are attached:
F1. FRC Balance Sheet, F2. FRC Income Statement, F3. FRC Designated Recap, and
F4. FRC 12-month Report.
FINANCIAL STATUS
Cash on hand at the end of April was $9,212 about $11,000 low. The account at
Feliciana Bank & Trust was closed out. The new FRC Petty Cash checking account at
Chase is operational as of this writing and had $2,702 which is within the desired range.
Other liability is $69,842 of which $31,445 is in reservation fees (SEE comment
under 2014 Audit). In addition, FRC owes $45,000 on the line of credit and $7,695 in 17month old insurance.
Income for April was only $14,207. Expense was $24,823. There was a deficit for
April of $11,815 and deficit for the year is already $58,632.
NOTE: As of this writing, an additional $10,000 has been drawn from Restricted
Funds to meet the mid-May payroll, cash in the petty cash account is about $2,171,
and cash in the operating checking account is about $19,552. This means the
immediate need for cash flow was covered by the payroll draw from designated
funds.
Current cash needs for FRC is:
Restricted Funds Shortage
19,154
Cash Advance from Presbytery 45,000
Insurance
7,695
Operating Reserve
25,000
Page 15 of 23
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TOTAL CASH NEEDED
WATER DAMAGE
$96,849
an improvement
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Repairs are complete. An unknown balance is due (suspected to be $40,000).
This has been pending for 14 months at this writing
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The 2014 audit of the financial records of PSL, including FRC, by Postlethwaite &
Netterville is in full swing and is due to be completed in about 45 days. The PSL (and
FRC) accounting service has identified reservation fees (deposits) dating back to 2006
that have not been cleared. An adjustment to the 2014 year-end financial statements
will be made to correct this.
BARTON HALL IMPROVEMENT
The addition of restrooms and other improvement to Barton Hall are complete.
Final payment has been made for these projects. The last of the Feb. 2012 PSL Grant
was drawn to assist with the payment (see Final Report to Presbytery).
2014 WORKERS’ COMP PAYROLL AUDIT
The 2014 Workers’ Comp Payroll Audit was completed and submitted. A
premium adjustment for actual payroll has been paid.
2014 FINANCIAL AUDIT
Respectfully submitted,
Thomas C. Tucker
Treasurer
Page 16 of 23
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CONGREGATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
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Presbytery of South Louisiana
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
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Congregational Development Committee
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HANDBOOK OF OPERATIONS
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April 21, 2015
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1. AUTHORITY AND PURPOSE
The Congregational Development Committee (CDC) is a committee of the Presbytery of South
Louisiana (PSL). The PSL is a Non-Profit Religious Corporation in the State of Louisiana and is a
middle level council (governing body) of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) which was granted
501(c)(3) tax exempt status by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service in January 1964. PSL is listed on
Group Exemption Number 1617 as being in good status with the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and
thereby entitled to tax exempt status.
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2. MEMBERSHIP
The membership and composition of CDC is defined by PSL. Currently there are 9 members serving
in 3 staggered classes of 3, each for a 3-year period. The membership is composed to the extent
possible of a chair and 2 members from each of the geographic areas of PSL as defined by the
Committee on Ministry. CDC members shall be nominated by the PSL Nominating Committee and
elected by PSL at its Stated Meeting in October of each year to take office at the first of the next
year. Vacancies shall be filled as required through nomination and election by PSL and take office
upon election.
CDC is charged with providing programs and assistance to the congregations which compose PSL
for the purpose of developing and transforming congregations for the growth and well-being of the
church; and for establishing new worshiping communities and new congregations. As such, CDC
oversees two subcommittees: the Church Transformation Subcommittee, and the New Worshiping
Communities Subcommittee.
CDC sets policy for the committee and its subcommittees, reviews and approves programs and
procedures, supervises the finances delegated to it, coordinates with other committees and
ministries of PSL, and reports to PSL and to Council (the Board of PSL). CDC cooperates with all
committees and programs of PSL and shall provide a liaison for joint activities when appropriate.
CDC and its subcommittees are subject to all policies adopted by PSL, including, but not limited to,
the PSL By-Laws and the PSL Manual of Operations, and to all directives issued by PSL.
Members of CDC may also serve on its subcommittees. The subcommittees shall appoint
additional members as required, provided each is a member of presbytery or a congregation of
presbytery.
The General Presbyter of PSL shall serve as an advisory member of CDC. CDC may invite additional
advisory members to participate as deemed necessary.
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3. OFFICERS AND DUTIES
3.1. Chair of CDC
The Chair of CDC shall be elected by PSL and shall take office at the first of the year if elected at
the time of annual elections, or upon election if filling a vacancy.
The Chair of CDC shall preside at all meetings, represent CDC at Council and PSL meetings, and
is responsible to PSL for accomplishment of the Purpose of CDC.
3.2. Other Officers
3.2.1. CDC may elect a Vice Chair from its members.
The Vice Chair of CDC shall serve in the absence or inability to serve of the Chair.
3.2.2 CDC may elect or the Chair may appoint a Recording Clerk.
The Recording Clerk of CDC shall keep minutes of all meetings and prepare all
recommendations and motions to be forwarded to Council and/or PSL.
3.3. Subcommittee Chairs
CDC shall elect a chair for each of its subcommittees from its members. Subcommittee
chairs are responsible for the duties delegated to their subcommittee by CDC.
3.3.1. Chair of CDC may also serve as a subcommittee chair.
3.3.1. The Chair of the Church Transformation Subcommittee shall serve as liaison to
the Committee on Ministry.
4. MEETINGS
4.1. Stated Meetings
CDC shall meet at least three times a year. These meetings should be between 1 and 3 weeks
prior to stated meetings of Council. The Chair of CDC shall set the date. The purpose of the
stated meetings shall be to conduct normal business and such particular items as may be
required for report and/or presentation to Council. Recommendations for action by PSL shall
be presented to Council for inclusion in the PSL Agenda.
4.2. Called Meetings
4.2.1. The Chair of CDC may call a meeting as required. Normal business and any special
items requiring action may be placed on the agenda.
4.2.2. Any 3 members of CDC may call a meeting provided the reason and purpose of the
meeting is specified in the call.
4.3. Notice of Meetings
Notice of all meetings shall be distributed to each CDC member at least 7 days prior to the
meeting. If a stated meeting, any special items of business to be on the agenda should be
listed in the notice. If a called meeting, the notice shall include the purpose which may be the
normal agenda and/or any special items.
4.4. Quorum, Approval, and Rules of Order
4.4.1. The quorum for any meeting shall be 50% of the current elected members.
4.4.2. Unless otherwise specified, approval of any business shall require an affirmative
vote of more than 50% of the voting members present.
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4.4.3. Unless otherwise specified, Robert’s Rules of Order shall govern all proceedings.
4.5. Order of Business at Meetings
The order of business is normally the following. However, at the adoption of the agenda, any
changes desired may be made.
1. Call to Order
2. Quorum Roll Call
3. Opening Prayer
4. Adoption of Agenda
5. Minutes of Previous Meeting(s)
6. Confirmation of Any Emergency Actions Taken
7. Order of the Day (Special Item(s), if any)
8. CDC Chairperson’s Report
9. Subcommittee Reports
10. Old Business
11. New Business
12. Call for Concerns (individuals, situations, etc.)
13. Closing Prayer
5. EMERGENCY ACTION
The chair of CDC may poll the members for an emergency action in compliance with Presbytery
policy.
All emergency actions shall be reported at the next meeting of CDC for confirmation and inclusion
in the minutes.
6. FINANCIAL PROCEDURES
The Finance Committee and/or Treasurer of PSL shall be consulted on any questions regarding
receipt and expenditure of funds by CDC. The Treasurer of PSL may be contacted for information
on Funds whose administration is delegated to CDC.
7. SEXUAL MISCONDUCT POLICY
CDC accepts and adopts the Policy and Procedures on Sexual Misconduct of PSL. All members of
CDC and its subcommittees shall be subject to this Policy.
8. MODIFICATION AND AMENDMENT
This Handbook of Operations may be modified or amended at any stated or called meeting by 2/3
majority vote of the current voting members of CDC, provided notice of the proposed change is
included in the call for the meeting.
Any portion of this handbook not in compliance with any policy or rule of PSL is automatically
modified to comply.
9. SEVERABILITY
Any portion of this Handbook of Operations found to be erroneous, inappropriate, unenforceable,
or inaccurate shall not affect the applicability and viability of the remainder of the manual.
ADOPTION: Adopted April 21, 2015, by unanimous vote.
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COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE
Minutes from meeting on March 19, 2015
This meeting was held by conference call and was opened in prayer by the Rev. Zach
Sasser. In attendance were Julia Miller, Zach Sasser, Alex Pappas, and Kathy Randall (RE).
Calvin Bohnet (RE) and Katherine Norwood were invited but unable to attend.
ACTION ITEM: The Committee requests that the following amendment be made to appendix
A of the PSL Communications Policy:
Name of Item
Target
Audience
Contents/Editor
ial Approval
Distribution
Frequency/
Method
Comments/
Deadlines
Social Media
(including but
not limited to:
Facebook,
Twitter,
Instagram,
Google+, etc.)
All persons in
Presbytery of
South Louisiana
and other
interested
parties in
related
agencies
Information
related to PSL
congregations
and mission
partners / All
PSL related
social media
accounts,
pages or
groups must be
reported to the
PSL Office and
must include
the GP and
Office
Administrator
as moderators
with editorial
privileges.
Available 24/7
Online
The PSL will
establish and
maintain a
Facebook
page and a
YouTube
Channel.
Groups may
be closed or
open
depending on
function and
need. Council
members
should also be
included as
moderators for
ministry
specific
accounts /
pages.
Items Discussed:
The purpose and function of the committee was reviewed as stated:
• The Presbytery shall elect a Communications Committee which shall be responsible for
oversight of electronic and printed communications, website, public relations strategy,
branding, marketing, and media relations.
Financial reporting
• It was discussed that our committee’s function regarding the communication of
finances should be limited to highlighting the mission of the PSL.
Website
• We discussed at length the need to update, with gratitude to Julia for the work that she
has done. Primary concerns are:
• Accessibility of information / Ease of use
• Reasonable protection for sensitive information
• Collaboration with 10/20
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Alex Pappas was to meet with Julia to establish and execute a plan to update it.
Since this discussion there have been some conversations with a former YAV
regarding a mutually beneficial arrangement to update the website.
Promotional Materials
• Through the LBPP, we have purchased Adobe Creative Suite to allow for collaborative
creation of new print materials.
• Funds may also be used for a video, depending on costs.
• Priorities for a PR campaign include:
• Connecting money to mission – “What does PSL do for us?”
• Celebrate our identity and connectedness
• Encourage involvement in ongoing activities
• Camp Agape
• Use of FRC
• Project Homecoming
• Other
Social Media
• Facebook groups were discussed as more manageable than pages
• All social media for PSL ministries and congregations should include the EP, Office
Administrator, and Chair of Communications as moderators with editorial privilege. They
may also include members of council or whosoever is needed in order to fulfill the task
of connecting ministry efforts.
• Congregations may develop social media as best fits their ministry.
•
•
The meeting was closed in prayer. A meeting is anticipated in late June, following the next
PSL meeting, but may be called as needed.
Respectfully submitted,
Zach Sasser
Chair
Page 21 of 23
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PREPARATION FOR MINISTRY
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Report to Presbytery June 2, 2015
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Recommended Action to Presbytery:
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1. That the updated Committee on the Preparation for Ministry Handbook be approved as
presented.
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2. That the following individuals be approved as GA Readers for Theological Examinations,
2015
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TE: Crawford Brubaker, Layne Brubaker, Martha Robson, Zach Sasser
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RE: Louise Kaltenbaugh, Glenda Keegan,
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Alternate: Leslie Mansell, Mary Mikell
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The CPM asks for your continued prayers for these individuals:
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Candidates:
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Elizabeth Soileau Acton is interested in receiving a call to the ministry and has
updated her PIF. She is a graduate of Columbia Seminary and has a Masters in Social
Work.
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Scott Crawford is a student in a Physician’s Assistant program at Northwestern in
Chicago. He is a graduate of Princeton Seminary.
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Lindsey Becker is working as a chaplain at Children’s Hospital in Birmingham, AL. She is
a graduate of Austin Seminary.
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Jeff Ferguson is a graduate of San Francisco Seminary. This fall, Jeff was treated for a
reoccurrence of cancer. He has started The Abbey Boston, a new 1001 New
Worshiping Community group.
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Kathy Lee is a student at Austin Seminary and is enrolled in the dual degree program
where, upon graduation, Kathy will receive a M.Div. and a Masters in Social Work.
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Maegen Norman withdrew from Union Seminary due to continuing medical problems.
She returned to her family home in Bryan, Texas and is receiving medical care in Texas.
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Lauren Wright Pittman is a 2nd year student at Columbia Seminary. In January, 2015,
Lauren traveled on a seminary sponsored trip to India.
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Chad Wright Pittman is a 2nd year student at Columbia Seminary. This April, Chad
traveled on a seminary sponsored trip to Eastern Europe.
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Barbara Tomek-White is a student at Austin Seminary. Barbara is a 2nd career student;
she entered seminary after a career as a Radiologist.
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Allie Utley is a graduate student at Vanderbilt Univ. pursuing a Ph.D. in Homiletics and
Liturgics. She is a graduate of Austin Seminary.
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Inquirers:
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Jerry Egbert serves as a CRE at First Presbyterian church in DeRidder, LA. He is an
online student at Dubuque Seminary.
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Seekers to become Commissioned Ruling Elders (CRE):
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Bob Emanuel has completed all online course requirements.
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James Goff has completed all online course requirements.
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Gayan Juarez began her online course work at Dubuque Seminary. At this time, she is
experiencing severe health issues.
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Miriam Schulingcamp is an online student in Austin Seminary’s new CRE program.
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Tom Tucker has completed all online course requirements.
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Dale Tullier has completed all online course requirements.
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Jamie White has been accepted as a Seeker, CRE; he has not begun his coursework.
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CPM members: Mary Mikell, RE (co-chair); Leslie Mansell, RE (co-chair); Crawford
Brubaker, TE; Louise Kaltenbaugh, RE; Dick Krajeski, TE; Linda Kelly, TE; Rick Pitcher, TE;
Judy Roeling, TE; Richard Seelman, RE; John Wamsley,TE.
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